Woman accused of looting from home in Palisades Fire area while wearing ‘Palisades Strong’ shirt

A woman named Karen Matsey was recently arrested by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) after being accused of looting a home in the Pacific Palisades area, which was severely impacted by the Palisades Fire. The irony of the situation was not lost on authorities, as Matsey was wearing a t-shirt with the slogan “Palisades Strong” when she was taken into custody. This phrase, often used to show support and resilience for the community affected by the fire, took on a bitterly ironic tone given the circumstances of her arrest. The CHP’s Southern Division shared images of Matsey on the social media platform X, highlighting the stark contrast between her actions and the message on her shirt.

The incident unfolded on February 21, when officers responded to a report of looting at a residence in the Pacific Palisades. Upon arrival, they learned that Matsey had already fled the scene. However, the victim provided a detailed description of her vehicle, which helped officers track her down. A subsequent search of her home revealed several stolen antiques, linking her to the crime. Matsey was arrested and is now facing charges of grand theft. The case has drawn attention not only due to the blatant nature of the crime but also because of the symbolic irony of her attire, which has sparked outrage and disappointment in the community.

The Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, has had a devastating impact on the region, forcing the evacuation of thousands of residents and damaging or destroying over 10,000 structures. As the community struggles to recover and rebuild, authorities have been working tirelessly to prevent further harm, including looting. CHP Southern Division Chief Chris Margaris expressed pride in his officers’ swift action, stating that their efforts reflect the highest standards of the CHP. Margaris emphasized the importance of protecting the public and preventing further victimization during this challenging time.

Looting has become a significant concern in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire, with authorities reporting dozens of arrests linked to such activities. The Santa Monica Police Department alone has made 39 arrests in evacuation zones, with none of the suspects being residents of the affected community. Similarly, the Los Angeles Police Department has made 34 arrests, with charges ranging from attempted burglary to curfew violations, drug possession, and probation violations. These numbers highlight the pervasive issue of opportunistic crime in the wake of natural disasters, where some individuals seek to exploit the vulnerability of others.

The broader context of the Palisades Fire and its aftermath underscores the emotional and psychological toll on the community. Residents who have lost their homes and possessions are not only dealing with the trauma of displacement but also the fear of returning to find what little they have left has been stolen. As authorities work to limit access to the affected areas and assist with the recovery process, the presence of looters adds an extra layer of stress and frustration. Los Angeles Assistant Police Chief Blake Chow aptly summed up the sentiment of many when he expressed disgust at the idea of people preying on evacuees who are already grappling with immense loss.

The arrest of Karen Matsey serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement and the community in the aftermath of a disaster. While the majority of people come together to support one another, there are always those who seek to exploit such situations for personal gain. The “Palisades Strong” t-shirt Matsey wore during her alleged crime is a poignant symbol of the disconnect between her actions and the values of resilience and solidarity that the slogan represents. As the Pacific Palisades community continues its long and difficult journey toward recovery, incidents like this serve as a grim reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for justice in the face of adversity.